Pastor Joel Wood joins Heritage Christian Church as Lead Pastor. His heart is to see people experience the transforming power of God, grow deeper in their relationship with Christ, and live out their faith in ways that impact the world around them. He believes the church should model unity, strengthen families, and send people out to make a difference in their communities.

Joel holds a Doctor of Ministry degree and has served in a variety of pastoral roles. His preaching is expositional, practical, personal, and authentic, always rooted in Scripture and centered on Christ. His goal is to help people better understand who God is and to develop a stronger desire to pursue His purpose for their lives.

As a pastor, Joel is committed to listening well, praying with people, and consistently pointing them to Jesus. He leads with the conviction that leadership should serve a greater vision of helping people become more like Christ, and that where the church is going should invite everyone to participate, not leave people standing on the sidelines.

Joel and his wife Ashley have been married since 2008 and are raising four incredible kids. He enjoys reading, movies, good coffee, running (slowly, by his own admission), and smoking barbecue. He previously served on an amateur competition barbecue team, which he is always happy to talk about. But even if you’re not into barbecue, Joel would love to meet you! Feel free to introduce yourself in the church atrium after a service.